Fiorinal

Generic Name: Butalbital, aspirin, and caffeine

What is Fiorinal?

Fiorinal is used for the relief of tension headache symptoms caused by muscle contractions in the head, neck, and shoulder area.

What is the most important information I should know about Fiorinal?

Mental and physical dependence can occur with the use of barbiturates such as butalbital when these drugs are taken in higher than recommended doses over long periods of time.

Who should not take Fiorinal?

Do not take Fiorinal if you are allergic to or intolerant to aspirin, butalbital, or caffeine.

Do not take this medication if you have an inherited metabolic disorder that affects the liver or bone marrow (porphyria).

When aspirin is given to children and teenagers suffering from flu or chickenpox, it can cause a dangerous neurological disease called Reye's syndrome. Therefore, do not use Fiorinal under these circumstances.

Fiorinal contains aspirin. Do not take Fiorinal if you have a stomach (peptic) ulcer or a disorder that affects the blood clotting process. Aspirin may irritate the stomach lining and may cause bleeding.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Fiorinal?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Fiorinal. Let you doctor know if you have had a head injury, have a history of substance abuse, or if you are taking blood thinners. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have: a bleeding disorder, Addison's disease (an adrenal gland disorder), an enlarged prostate, asthma, difficulty urinating, stomach (peptic) ulcers, or an underactive thyroid.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

The usual dose of Fiorinal is 1 or 2 capsules taken every 4 hours. Do not take more than 6 capsules in a day.

How should I take Fiorinal?

For best relief, take Fiorinal as soon as a headache begins.

Take Fiorinal with a full glass of water or food to reduce stomach irritation

Take Fiorinal exactly as prescribed. Do not increase the amount you take without your doctor's approval, and do not take the drug for longer than prescribed.

What should I avoid while taking Fiorinal?

Avoid taking Fiorinal with alcohol or other medications that can make you feel drowsy. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. If you drink alcohol during therapy with Fiorinal, this can increase your risk of stomach bleeding.

Do not take more Fiorinal than prescribed. Fiorinal may be habit-forming.

Avoid other aspirin-containing products.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Fiorinal?

If Fiorinal is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Fiorinal with the any of the following: acetazolamide, alcohol; blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin; insulin; MAO inhibitors, such as the antidepressants phenelzine and tranylcypromine; mercaptopurine; methotrexate; narcotic pain relievers such as codeine and morphine; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen; oral diabetes drugs such as glyburide; probenecid; sleeping pills; steroid medications such as prednisone; sulfinpyrazone; and tranquilizers such as alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, and diazepam.

What are the possible side effects of Fiorinal?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: dizziness, drowsiness

Can I receive Fiorinal if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Fiorinal during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while taking Fiorinal.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Fiorinal?

If you take Fiorinal on a regular schedule, take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

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